The 2007 Sor Ugo is 60% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc aged in French oak. This dark beauty emerges with layers of black fruit, grilled herbs, spices and minerals, showing wonderful richness, vibrancy and precision. In short, it’s all there in the glass. The French oak is nicely balanced, even if another year or two in bottle will be helpful in allowing it to integrate further. This is a beautiful effort from Aia Vecchia. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2019. Aia Vecchia is one of the more under the radar producers in Bolgheri, but the wines rarely fail to deliver the goods, especially given prices that remain reasonable.Importer: Dalla Terra, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 259-5405

Sorugo (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc) is nothing short of gorgeous with elegant aromas of polished mineral, cherry, chocolate, leather and brooding black fruit. It’s soft and textured with a refreshing note of acidity backed by excellent density. ——M.L.(12/15/2010)—— 95